New on-board computers for all of the St. Landry Parish Sheriff's Office's patrol units are increasing both efficiency and safety for officers and the public.

Patrol Sgt. Mike Darbonne says deputies are able to run license plates and drivers' backgrounds from the car without waiting for dispatch.  He said those checks can save a deputy's life.

Also now installed in the patrol units are cameras that activate whenever the flashing lights are turned on and the sheriff's office is also equipping its deputies with personal cameras that attach to their uniforms.

Sheriff Bobby Guidroz said the computers, as well as the improved camera systems, were funded in part from a $238,000 grant from the state.

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